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Ndubuisi Okafor, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician with over 20 years of experience. At his practice, Okafor Medical Associates, located in Washington, DC, Dr. Okafor offers patients compassionate care for a variety of conditions including chronic disease management, ADHD, and internal medicine concerns as a leading primary care physician.

Dr. Okafor obtained his medical degree from the Howard University Hospital and is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is also specially trained in Advanced Trauma Life Support and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support.

Dr. Okafor is a registered Civil Surgeon with the United States Center for Immigration Services, so he can provide Immigration Medical examinations with all the required tests in the facility. In addition, is a Registered Certified Medical Examiner with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, so he can provide medical examination and certification for commercial motor vehicle drivers.

When he is not treating his patients, Dr. Okafor enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing his hobbies which include football, soccer, and running. Dr. Okafor also speaks English, Ibo, Yoruba, and Hausa.

He looks forward to meeting new patients and giving them the best care possible.

Melissa Falkowski attended Mount Saint Mary College where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree. Melissa has over 15 years of experience in the healthcare field, including Oncology, Preoperative and Postoperative care, and Operating Room experience. After working for 2 years in the Operating Room with Dr. Desai, Melissa joined the team at International Spine, Pain & Performance Center in 2017. As Chief Operating Officer, Melissa is focused on ensuring all clinical standards are met to guarantee that our patients receive optimal and cutting edge care. Melissa partners with the clinicians at ISPPC to execute our mission statement of being leaders in clinical excellence. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys traveling the world with her husband and daughters, and spending time with their family and friends.

Abbi Lamparelli is a Nurse Practitioner with Gastro Centers of Maryland, bringing over a decade of hands-on clinical experience to her role. She began her career in medical-surgical and emergency medicine and transitioned into advanced practice nursing in 2023 after completing her training at Drexel University. She further advanced her education by earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Aspen University.

Abbi’s approach to patient care is deeply rooted in compassion and respect. She emphasizes a patient-centered, holistic, and evidence-based philosophy—ensuring that each individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique health journey. She remains committed to empowering patients with clear communication, shared decision-making, and attentive follow-up.

Beyond her clinical work, Abbi has a strong interest in healthcare research and ongoing professional development. Outside of work, Abbi enjoys reading, birdwatching, and trying new restaurants—interests that highlight her curiosity and appreciation for both quiet moments and fun new experiences.

Colleen Abell is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgetown University in 2006. She has practiced as a nurse practitioner for the past sixteen years. Ms. Abell's experience includes working in a family medical clinic, but she spent most of her career providing care for patients recovering from Bariatric and GI surgical/oncology procedures. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Ms. Abell worked as a Registered Nurse in cardiology and emergency medicine.

Colleen joined the Gastro Center of Maryland in 2021 after relocating from the NY/NJ area. She is dedicated to being a great provider and advocate for her patients. Outside of work, Ms. Abell enjoys spending time with her husband and three boys.

Xinna Yi is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University, which she completed in 2023. She brings a wealth of experience from her work in a family medical clinic and her previous role as a Registered Nurse specializing in cardiology medicine. Before transitioning to nursing, she graduated from medical school in China and gained one and a half years of experience as a gastrointestinal physician at an academic hospital in China.

 Xinna is committed to patient-centered care, employing a collaborative, team-based approach to healthcare. She has a passion for continuous learning and teaching. In her personal life, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, watching movies, and traveling.

Alexandra Minutillo, PA-C, is a physician assistant at Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a minor in Creative Writing from Washington & Lee University and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Alexandra began her career at Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery in September 2024, where she specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhoids, pilonidal cysts, anal pain, abscesses, pruritus, and other colorectal conditions. She was drawn to colorectal surgery during her PA school training, where she developed a strong interest in both the clinical and procedural aspects of the field.

She values building trust with her patients and takes pride in guiding them through sensitive concerns with compassion and clarity. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring Washington, D.C., and spending time with her family and friends.

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Education

• Master of Physician Assistant Studies, Chatham University, 2024
• B.A. Chemistry & Creative Writing, Washington & Lee University, 2022

Catherine Holder, PA-C, is a physician assistant with more than 10 years of experience. At Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC. Catherine specializes in diagnosing and treating anal pain, hemorrhoids, abscesses, and other colorectal conditions.

Catherine completed her undergraduate and physician assistant training at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, before returning to her home state of Alaska to specialize in colon and rectal surgery. During the early years of her career, Catherine met her husband, an Air Force pilot, and relocated to Washington state, where she continued to specialize in surgery.

After welcoming their third child, Catherine and her husband were stationed in Illinois. Catherine transitioned into being a stay-at-home parent during this time before having her third child and moving to Northern Virginia. She is thrilled to rejoin the workforce and return to her passion of helping others at Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC.

With extensive education, training, and a compassionate demeanor, Catherine hopes to help her patients feel empowered to face their medical and surgical concerns.

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Education

• PA, Marquette University, 2010
• B.S. Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 2009